VIP Blog
Pet Care Hub
Local guides for Dallas Metroplex and Austin Metro pet parents, plus practical advice on pet sitting, dog walking and everyday pet care.
Dallas Metroplex and Austin Metro guides
Dallas Metroplex
Pet-Friendly Weekend Getaways from Dallas
A weekend away with your dog sounds simple until you check the map. From Dallas, Waco is about an hour and a half by car. Fredericksburg is about four and a half hours and San Antonio about five, so they work best as a long weekend rather than a quick escape. This...
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Plano, TX
DINING OUT WITH YOUR DOG IN PLANO Dogs are welcome on the patios of many Plano restaurants, which makes a meal out an easy way to include your dog. Trusted since 2001, VIP Pet Services provides in-home pet sitting and dog walking across the Dallas Metroplex, and we...
Austin Metro
Austin Pet Guide
Dog parks, dog-friendly patios and campgrounds in Greater Austin, plus official City resources.
Practical guides for every pet parent
Summer Travel with Your Pet
Bringing your pets on summer trips can be great, but you need to plan ahead and know the rules. Different places have different requirements for pets, including vaccinations, health certificates, and travel arrangements. To make traveling easier for your pet, get...
Keeping Your Indoor Cat Happy When You’re Away
Planning a getaway this summer? While you’re enjoying your vacation, it’s important to ensure your indoor cat remains happy and stress-free at home. Cats are creatures of habit, and changes in their environment or routine can cause anxiety. Here are...
Three Reasons to Meet with Your Pet Sitter in Advance
One essential step in planning to be away from your pets is meeting with your pet sitter before you finalize your plans. At VIP Pet Services, we understand that your pet is more than just an animal – they are a cherished member of your family. That’s why when...
Need care for your pet?
Request a reservation online, or contact our office and we will talk through what your pet needs.
Serving the Dallas Metroplex and Austin Metro.
‹ Back to the Pet Care Hub: local guides and practical advice
Latest articles
The Best Homemade Pet Treat Recipes for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is right around the corner! It is a time of family, friends, and giving thanks for the great many blessings in life. Show your dog or cat the ultimate gratitude by giving them a pet friendly Thanksgiving this year. Thanksgiving is more than just a...
Easy Last Minute DIY Pet Halloween Costumes
Halloween is just around the corner, and the excitement is building! You’ve probably spent weeks planning your own costume, but what about your furry friend? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. These DIY pet Halloween costumes are not only...
15 Ways to Get Great Fall Photos of Your Dog
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to seize the enchanting backdrop of Fall with your dog. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or someone who adores their dog and owns a smartphone, you can take great Fall...
6 Ways to Keep Your Pet Safe On Halloween
HOW TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE ON HALLOWEEN As Halloween approaches, pet owners encounter a mix of enthusiasm and worry. While we embrace the festivities and costumes, our pets may be bewildered by the appearance of strangers in strange attire. In the spirit of this...
5 Reasons a Pet Sitter Guarantees Carefree Tailgating
A TEXAS TRADITION: TAILGATING AND PET SITTERS IN DALLAS Nestled deep in the heart of the Lone Star State, the spirited tradition of tailgating at Longhorns and Dallas Cowboys games is nothing short of a rite of passage for sports enthusiasts. Year after year, it...
5 Perfect Fall Goals for Texas Dog Owners
EMBRACING 2023 FALL GOALS WITH PURPOSE As the leaves begin to change and a cool breeze fills the air, it’s that time of year when many of us are inspired to make positive changes in our lives. But why not extend this tradition to our furry companions as well?...












